Magic of the Elements

“Magic of the ELEMENTS: Earth, Air, Fire, Water.” A first reading of the motto creates the impression of a spectacular and tension-filled event. The four elements conjure up thoughts of archaic experiences; magic is fascinating because of its supernatural quality – and therefore lies in the trend of the entertainment industry!

But a cultural garden show is not a media corporation. Thus the motto is more ambiguous and enigmatic than at first glance. The slogan is ambiguous on several levels simultaneously: the charm of all the events lies in the “Magic”; the spectators who are able to experience these events are spellbound by the “Magic.” The four “elements” describe not only the four physical elements but also the program modules. Moreover, in Greek natural philosophy, the four physical elements are the primal basis of all life. They thus represent the central link between the cultural and the floral program. 

In the program of the State Garden Show, the four elements “Earth,” “Air,” “Fire,” and “Water” will serve as the bases for the succession of events. About every six weeks the theme will be changed, and, with it, the program. This variation will occur not only in the program of events but also in the garden show arrangement. Some parts of the site’s broad expanse will be rearranged and adapted to the respective theme block.

The circumstances of nature require a definite succession of themes. Because the show must deviate from the normal language rhythm, the State Garden Show must follow a new succession of the elements: “Air,” Water,” “Fire,” “Earth.” Only in this order is it also possible to express the programmatic theme changes in the realm of plants as well.